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Vidovich Adds Three More on #NLIDay @Pitt_MSOC #PghSoccer

Pitt’s men’s soccer program under the direction of highly touted coach Jay Vidovich in his second year in Oakland, is looking to take some big steps forward in the coming season, and based on the past month of recruiting activity, the Panthers have some promise on the horizon.
 
On National Letter of Intent Day, Vidovich announced three more players that will join six mid-year additions that came to Pitt in January.
 
Vidovich is pleased to share that the nine additions bring a wealth of experience to Pittsburgh, including extensive international and MLS academy backgrounds.
 
Joining the squad in the fall includes Toronto, Ontario, native Glenn Muenkat, Pennsylvania product Tim Townsend and North Carolina native Drew Walczyk.
 

“We’re excited to have Glenn, Tim and Drew join the Pitt soccer family,” Vidovich said.
“I believe these gentlemen have the talent and personalities needed to leave their mark on this program. They are joining a group of six mid-year additions that are excited and committed to build the Pitt soccer program into something really special.”

 
Here’s more on the trio that have signed to play and attend the University of Pittsburgh:
 
Glenn Muenkat / M / Toronto FC Academy
A native of Toronto, Ontario, Muenkat is a current member of both the U20 and U18 Canadian national teams and recently captained Canada during a U18 National Team trip to El Salvador. While playing for the U18 squad, Muenkat was the top scorer and crowned MVP at the conclusion of a two-game series against the United States. He is also a member of the Major League Soccer’s Toronto FC Academy team where he has won both the Ontario Youth Soccer League title and Ontario Cup, while being the top scorer in the OYSL.
 
Muenkat on why he chose Pitt:

“When speaking with Coach Vidovich, he asked me if I want to create my own legacy or join a school in which already has a legacy. Coach Vidovich saying that really motivated me to come here and be a part of his program.”

 
Vidovich on Muenkat:

“Glenn is coming from a top club in Toronto which is preparing him for the life of a professional soccer player. He wants to be here to build something and has some individual qualities that will help us win games.”

 
Tim Townsend / M / LDC United Italia 98-99
Townsend comes to Pittsburgh after a standout senior campaign at Lower Dauphin High School in eastern Pennsylvania where he led the team to a perfect 28-0 season that was capped off with a PIAA 3A state championship title that was highlighted by netting the game-winning goal in the 15th minute. The midfielder netted an impressive 31 goals in his final high school season.
 
Townsend’s impressive performance as a senior led him to NSCAA High School All-America accolades and was just one of four players in the state of Pennsylvania to receive the honor. In addition to All-America status, Townsend was tabbed Mid-Penn Keystone Player of the Year and All-Region Player of the Year, while garnering NSCAA All-State and All-East Region Team honors.
 
At the club level, Townsend plays for LDC United Italia and earned a trip to the U.S. Club Soccer Nationals in 2015 after winning the Mid-Atlantic Regional tournament.
 
Townsend on why he chose Pitt:

“I chose Pitt because it is a well-respected school academically and athletically. I believe this is the best opportunity for me to develop as a player by learning from the best coaches in the country as they help me take my game to the next level.”

 
Vidovich on Townsend:

“Tim is a winner and competitor both at the high school and club level. His potential is high and I’m just really excited to start working with him to see what we can get out of him in this environment. I think he has the potential to be a major threat in the ACC because he’s powerful and always looking to get to the goal.”

 
Drew Walczyk / M / Capital Area Railhawks
Walczyk is a member of the U.S. Soccer Development Academy Capital Area Railhawks – CASL squad out of North Carolina. The Raleigh native is a three-time North Carolina Youth Soccer Association state champion and led his 98 CASL Red team to the U.S. Youth Soccer National Championship tournament prior to joining the USSDA. As a junior, Walczyk earned NSCAA All-Conference honors and was named to the NSCAA All-Region Team.
 
Walczyk on why he chose Pitt:

“I chose Pitt for the opportunity to compete in the ACC, play under the best coaches in the country and further my academic career at a top-notch school. I believe Pitt is an up and coming program and with Coach Vidovich’s experience, the sky is the limit. I am beyond excited to continue my soccer and academic career at Pitt.”

 
Vidovich on Walczyk:
 

“Drew is another player that comes to Pitt with great qualities. He played with the same club as current freshman Josh Coan down in North Carolina with coaches that I greatly respect. The belief in Drew’s upside is huge and we’re excited to have another winner and a guy that can continue to get better.”

 
 
 

John Krysinsky has covered soccer and other sports for many years for various publications and media outlets. He is also author of 'Miracle on the Mon' -- a book about the Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC, which chronicles the club, particularly the early years of Highmark Stadium with the narrative leading up to and centered around a remarkable match that helped provide a spark for the franchise. John has covered sports for Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, DK Pittsburgh Sports, Pittsburgh Sports Report, has served as color commentator on Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC broadcasts, and worked with OPTA Stats and broadcast teams for US Open Cup and International Champions Cup matches held in the US. Krysinsky also served as the Head Men’s Soccer Coach at his alma mater, Point Park University, where he led the Pioneers to the first-ever winning seasons and playoff berths (1996-98); head coach of North Catholic boys (2007-08), associate head coach of Shady Side Academy boys (2009-2014).

Glory on the Grass

Riverhounds MF Kenardo Forbes

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